Nexture, the Milan-based value-added food ingredients group supported by Investindustrial, has announced its acquisition of Frulact, a prominent global manufacturer of fruit- and vegetable-based specialty ingredients. This transaction marks a significant advancement in Nexture’s buy-and-build strategy, amplifying its expertise in fruit preparations while broadening its presence in North America and Africa.
Frulact, headquartered in Porto, Portugal, operates 11 production facilities and 9 R&D centres across Europe, North America, and Africa. The company employs over 850 individuals and generates approximately €265 million in annual revenue, supplying fruit-based ingredients, liquid flavours, and plant-based solutions to over 50 countries. Its extensive portfolio caters to dairy, desserts, beverages, and ice cream, with a robust focus on clean label and wellness trends.
“This acquisition represents a natural evolution of our growth strategy,” stated Gabriele Del Torchio, CEO of Nexture. “Frulact’s innovation capabilities and regional reach complement our operational excellence and heritage in fruit preparations, allowing us to accelerate value creation and deliver even greater customer impact.”
The acquisition builds upon Nexture’s existing expertise in fruit preparations, anchored by its facilities in Pedrengo, Italy, and Goes, the Netherlands. With Frulact joining its portfolio, Nexture’s industrial footprint expands to 24 factories and 20 R&D centres globally, supporting estimated revenues of €1.1 billion and a workforce of 2,700.
Frulact’s leadership team, led by CEO Dinorah Mandic, will remain intact and integrate into the Nexture Group. “We share a common vision of excellence and sustainability,” Mandic remarked. “Joining Nexture gives us the scale and resources to accelerate innovation and expand our geographic reach.”
The transaction is anticipated to conclude in Q1 2026, pending regulatory approvals. Advisors on the deal included Nomura, Slaughter & May, Uría, Paul Weiss, McKinsey & Company, and PwC.
Nexture’s portfolio encompasses CSM Ingredients, Italcanditi, HIFOOD, Vitalfood, Comprital, and Prodotti Rubicone. The group operates in over 120 countries, positioning itself as a strategic partner for food industry stakeholders seeking high-quality, trend-aligned ingredient solutions.
